How to Build a Breastfeeding & Diaper Cart

As a Lactation Consultant, I’ve visited hundreds of homes, and I can tell you that having a well-stocked feeding and baby care cart can help you feel prepared and organized. When the baby is hungry, or you finally sit down to pump, there is nothing worse than realizing that the supplies you need are across the house, upstairs, or down the hall. 

A cart stocked with intention helps you:

• Reduce decision fatigue
• Stay consistent with pumping routines
• Stay on top of your hunger and hydration
• Save time
• Make diaper changes faster and smoother
• Keep everything you need at arm’s reach

Let’s break down each part of a perfectly stocked cart and download our Free Nursing Cart to start building yours today! 

• Motif Luna + Motif Aura Glow - The pumping power couple! Luna is a powerful primary pump, and Aura Glow is a super-effective wearable option. Luna is great for building and maintaining your milk supply and Aura Glow is the star of the show when it comes to hands-free convenience. *Store your charging cords alongside your pumps to prevent misplacing them.

• Milk Storage Bags - Keep them at the ready for safe breastmilk collection and storage. Also keep a marker handy for labeling your bags before storing. 

• Hands-Free Pumping Bra - Use a hands-free bra to make it easier to care for your baby or multi-task while pumping. 

• Nipple Cream - A gentle, organic, herbal formula is ideal for moisturizing and promoting healing. Oil-based options are my go-to!

• Extra Pump Parts - Keep replacement duckbill valves, diaphragms, Collection Cups, tubing, bottles,  extra flanges, and flange inserts within reach. Tiny parts get lost easily, especially in the middle of the night so having a backup can prevent a pumping catastrophe. 

• Hand Sanitizer + Sanitizing Wipes - Hand sanitizer is nice to have for those situations when getting up to wash your hands just isn’t possible. Sanitizing wipes can be used to wipe down your pump motor, your pumping car, or any surface you’ll set your pump on. 

• Nursing Pads - Whether you choose disposable, reusable, or a combo of both, extra nursing pads are an important addition for any breastfeeding mom who experiences leaking.

• Silicone Milk Collectors - Use these to catch your letdown on the non-nursing side because every drop really does count!

• Hand Towel - PRO TIP: roll up a small hand towel and tuck it under your breast to help lift and position during pumping or nursing. This is especially helpful if you have large, heavy breasts. 

The second tier of your cart is all about the items you’ll reach for most frequently when handling diaper changes, spit-ups, and general day-to-day baby care.

• Diapers. Wipes, Diaper Cream - Newborns typically need 8 or more diaper changes in 24 hours. Stock a day’s worth of diapers and opt for a wipes container that allows for one-handed dispensing. Choose a fragrance free diaper cream for baby’s delicate skin. A wipeable changing pad is a great addition to this section as well!
• Burp Cloths, Extra Onesies, and Sleepers -Spit-ups and blowouts can make for a big mess on a tiny baby. Keeping several burp cloths and a couple of changes of clothing nearby will save you time and precious energy during your postpartum recovery. 
• Receiving Blankets - Spit-ups and blowouts don’t just wreck cute sleepers. Keep a couple of extra receiving blankets on your cart as backups throughout the day. They can also make a quick nursing cover if unexpected guests arrive. 
• Nail File/Clippers - One of my favorite newborn hacks is to handle nail care while baby is sleeping. If your file or clippers is within arm’s reach on your cart, you’re all set for a baby manicure during a contact nap. 

Moms often forget about themselves, but taking care of YOU is part of taking care of your baby too! Focus on your hydration, comfort, and recovery for the third tier of your cart.

• Water Bottle or Tumbler - Hydration is key for milk production and recovery. Keep your favorite vessel filled with water or an occasional electrolyte drink. 

• Personal Care Items - The of the small items you’ll want to reach for when you're in the middle of a nursing or pumping session or when you find yourself nap-trapped. 

  • Lip balm

  • Lotion

  • Hair ties or clips

  • Supplements or postpartum medications

• Phone Charger + TV Remote - Feeding takes time. While it’s important to focus on connecting with your baby, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch up on your favorite series or podcast too. 

Giving some time and intention to a well-stocked breastfeeding, pumping, and diaper cart isn’t just about convenience - it’s a way to support yourself during the postpartum period. By keeping essentials on hand, you’ll stay prepared and less stressed when caring for your baby and yourself. 

Remember, postpartum isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about embracing the beauty and struggle of motherhood as you and your baby learn each other. Make your environment work for you, not against you, so you can focus on what really matters. 

Did you know you can get your breast pump and other accessories through insurance? Use our handy Insurance Lookup Tool to get started.

Information provided in blogs should not be used as a substitute for medical care or consultation.